HOW Divides frame into four monocoque sections
(plus dropouts)—with carbon fibers running
continuously from tube to tube within each section—for more precise optimization of tubes shapes, sizes, and joints.

TAPERED, SHAPED HEAD TUBE

WHAT Strategically designed head tube
on SL4 frames tapers from 1-1/8” at the
top to 1-3/8” at the crown and facilitates massive top and down tube junctions.

HOW The wider base creates a stiffer, stronger junction, and the gradual transition of carbon fiber from top to bottom eliminates the potential for weak spots due to sharp angles—carbon is at its best when it keeps a smooth line. Uber-oversized top and down tubes “wrap” around the front of the head tube, creating the utlra-stiff “bulges” at the junctions. The design requires a smaller lower bearing (compared to last year’s 1-1/2”) which saves weight.

ONE-PIECE BB/CHAINSTAY

WHAT FACT IS construction with bottom bracket and chainstays constructed as
one piece on on most frame levels.

WHY Optimizes weight and stiffness in
one of the most critical and highest-stress areas of the frame for superior acceleration, efficiency, and handling.

HOW The BB and chainstays are molded together creating a single unit, rather than bonded together
after molding, along with the carbon BB shell. This results in a super strong and stiff unit: seamless from the BB to the dropouts, eliminating
potentially weak junctions. This design resists deflection under extreme pedal loads for improved power transfer.

TRICKLE-DOWN TECHNOLOGY

WHAT Entire Tarmac family borrows technologies
from the top-end, Pro Tour-winning S-Works models.

WHY Increases performance and overall value in every Tarmac we make. Allows all riders to enjoy technology exclusively found on pro team-level bikes a year or two prior.

HOW Each year advancements from pre-
vious S-Works models trickle down to lower level bikes. For instance all frames use FACT IS construction—
our most advanced carbon construction method—
featuring triangulated seatstays, tapered head tube assemblies, and oversized tube sets for torsional stiffness and light weight.